Tim Seifert Replaces Jacob Bethell in RCB Squad Ahead Of IPL 2025 Play-Offs

Add as a preferred source on Google

New Zealand's experienced wicketkeeper-batter Tim Seifert is all set to step into the Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad as a replacement for England's Jacob Bethell, who will be departing the IPL to fulfill international duties.

Bethell is scheduled to return home ahead of England's three-match ODI series against the West Indies, beginning on May 29.

Bethell will feature in RCB's upcoming clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad on May 23 before heading back. Notably, that match has been moved from Bengaluru to Lucknow due to weather-related concerns.

Seifert's arrival will be effective from May 24, but his travel to India hinges on the Karachi Kings' journey in the ongoing Pakistan Super League, where he is currently playing.

The Kings are slated to play in the PSL Eliminator against Lahore Qalandars on Thursday night, with the final scheduled for Sunday, May 25. If Karachi qualifies, Seifert's arrival may be slightly delayed.

Seifert has shown good form in the PSL, scoring 226 runs in nine innings while opening alongside David Warner, at a healthy strike rate of 145.8. The 34-year-old, who has amassed over 1,500 runs in T20 internationals for New Zealand, has prior IPL experience with stints at Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders. However, he hasn't featured in the league since 2022. He joins RCB for a reported fee of ₹2 crore.

Bethell, in his debut IPL season, made an impression in limited opportunities. He played twice, with his standout performance coming against Chennai Super Kings, where he hammered 55 off 33 balls. His exit leaves a void in Bengaluru's middle order heading into the final phase of the tournament.

Meanwhile, uncertainty looms over Josh Hazlewood's participation. The Australian quick is currently at the High-Performance Centre in Brisbane, working towards fitness ahead of the World Test Championship final. RCB's Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, confirmed they remain in contact with Cricket Australia, but Hazlewood's return will depend on his recovery from a recent shoulder issue.

Elsewhere, Gujarat Titans, Mumbai Indians, and Punjab Kings have already confirmed their playoff spots. Jos Buttler, part of the Gujarat squad, will also miss the knockouts due to his national team duties.